Do's & Avoids for Diversified Reading

We can have the best intentions for diversifying our reading because we understand how important it is. However, sometimes there are barriers can stand in our way - whether it's access, exposure, or ingrained habits. 

For today's post, I wanted to share some do's & avoid's to help us on our diverse reading journeys.

1. Avoid shopping for books only at big box stores. Instead, shop at indie bookstores as their often carefully curated selections means that you'll discover diverse titles front and center.
2. Avoid following only large book clubs or book influencer accounts on social media. Instead, mix in smaller accounts and join smaller, niche book clubs as they will more often post about indie or lesser known titles.
3. Avoid falling (and staying) in the same old, comfortable reading habits. Instead, use monthly heritage celebrations, reading challenges, and diverse book recs within your preferred genres to help you discover something new and exciting.

I hope these tips are helpful!

Check out these Women's History Month recs for every type of genre reader. I hope there's at least one title that intrigues you. 

Fiction

• A Place for Us by Fatima Farheen Mirza – A moving family drama about an Indian-American Muslim family grappling with love, faith, and reconciliation.

Thriller/Mystery

• It's Elementary by Elise Bryant – A young Black detective in an elite private school navigates the challenges of solving a mystery while dealing with classism and racism.

Romance

• Edison by Pallavi Sharma Dixit – A heartwarming story about a woman’s journey of love and self-discovery after moving to a new city.

Fantasy

• The River Has Roots by Amal El-Mohtar – A lyrical fantasy about a magical river and a woman’s quest to uncover her family’s hidden past.

Science Fiction

• Jamaica Ginger and Other Concoctions by Nalo Hopkinson – A collection of imaginative and culturally rich stories blending Caribbean folklore with futuristic themes.

Nonfiction

• LatinoLand by Marie Arana – A deep dive into the cultural and political influence of Latinos in America today.

Poetry

• We Live Here by Lois Beardslee – Poems that reflect the Ojibwe calendar year, blending cultural traditions with modern life.

Let me know which titles you will be adding to your reading list this year!